In December, The Mirror reported that Chelsea are looking to bolster their central defence and are targeting Inter Milan defender Andrea Ranocchia.

The 25-year-old has made 14 appearances this season and has bagged a goal to his name. His stats are pretty impressive as well. With 26 tackles and 25 interceptions already, he has become one of the key players for the Nerazzurri this season.

Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho has three centre-backs – John Terry, Gary Cahill and David Luiz – at his disposal, and although media reports continue to speculate the Brazilian’s future, it seems highly unlikely that Luiz would be allowed to leave in the January transfer window.

According to reports in Italy, German giants Borussia Dortmund are looking to add a quality defender to their ranks and have targeted the £15m rated Italian defender. Dortmund are missing the services of Subotic and Hummels through injuries and therefore are looking for a defender with similar attributes.